Often times a quick escape is all the schedule allows. Luckily for Texans - and visitors to the Lone Star State - there are several interesting attractions and destinations within a short drive of major Texas metro areas such as Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.
1. Longhorn Caverns State Park
TPW
Longhorn Caverns is a Hill Country wonder that have housed Comanche Indians, Confederate Soldiers and, perhaps, and outlaw or two. Today the site is a state park, offering a number of tours and educational programs.
2. Enchanted Rock
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Located just north of Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, Enchanted Rock is one of the largest natural rock formations in the United States, with a dome that rises 425 feet above the ground (1825 feet above sea level). Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1970, Enchanted Rock is also part of the Texas State Parks System and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
3. Lake Travis
Created in 1941, Lake Travis is over 60 miles long, winding through the scenic Texas Hill Country. Lake Travis' clear waters, scenic surroundings and close proximity to Austin have made it one of the most popular lakes for recreational boaters.4. Colorado Bend State Park
Located on the Colorado River above Lake Buchanan, Colorado Bend State Park offers visitors some of the best river swimming in the state, as well as hiking, camping, fishing, birding and mountain biking.5. Krause Springs
Located a short distance outside of Austin, Krause Springs is located near the headwaters of Cypress Creek. Krause Springs encompasses two large swimming holes and numerous campsites.6. Lake Lewisville
A favorite spot for Dallas watersport enthusiasts, Lake Lewisville offers visitors a variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, sailboarding, and more.7. Mercer Arboretum
Located in Humble, a short drive from Houston, Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a 250 acre collection of native and cultivated plant life. Additionally, the center has an outdoor classroom, picnic area and miles of walking trails.8. Lake Conroe
Lake Conroe's 21,000 acres lie just a short drive from Houston. It's quick access to the nation's fourth largest city has made it one of the busiest lakes in the state when it comes to recreational boating traffic.9. Natural Bridge Caverns
An underground wonder, Natural Bridge Caverns shows the family a side of the world they probably haven't seen. In addition to a variety of subterranean tours, Natural Bridge Caverns offers a host of above-ground educational activities for kids of all ages.10. Big Thicket National Preserve
National Park Service
Covering nearly 100,000 acres, Big Thicket National Preserve was the first such preserve in the United States. The Big Thicket NP is home to a diverse group of plants and animals and plays host to thousands of nature enthusiasts annually.
